'''A.''' Most often it is the library administrator who, using [[statistics]] and a [[Sample benchmarking process]], discussions of use patterns, and projections for the future, makes the case for expansion. But, as most librarians don't build a library more than once or twice in our careers, we turn to the experts and the published literature, some of which is listed on the [[Buildings]] page.

'''A.''' Most often it is the library administrator who, using [[statistics]] and a [[Sample benchmarking process]], discussions of use patterns, and projections for the future, makes the case for expansion. But, as most librarians don't build a library more than once or twice in our careers, we turn to the experts and the published literature, some of which is listed on the [[Buildings]] page.

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Rough estimates as to the funding needed can be determined from the annual reports of similar building projects referenced on [http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/hqops/library/libraryfactsheet/alalibraryfactsheet11.cfm ALA Library Fact Sheet Number 11: Building Libraries and Library Additions: A Selected Annotated Bibliography], but a detailed feasibility study, and architect and contractor support, may prove necessary to determine the extent of funds needed to be raised. Most jurisdictions require an architect to do specific planning, but a library building consultant may be helpful to the library administrator in evaluating the current building and making recommendations--and for helping to communicate the specific library needs. Throughout, the needs of the community and the overall program of the library dictate the building plans. [[Planning and Assessment]] is key! Also see the [[Request for Proposal (RFP)]] page for resources on finding sample library building RFPs.

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Rough estimates as to the funding needed can be determined from the annual reports of similar building projects referenced on [http://www.ala.org/library/fact11.html ALA Library Fact Sheet Number 11: Building Libraries and Library Additions: A Selected Annotated Bibliography], but a detailed feasibility study, and architect and contractor support, may prove necessary to determine the extent of funds needed to be raised. Most jurisdictions require an architect to do specific planning, but a [http://www.ala.org/library/fact9.html library building consultant] may be helpful to the library administrator in evaluating the current building and making recommendations--and for helping to communicate the specific library needs. Throughout, the needs of the community and the overall program of the library dictate the building plans. [[Planning and Assessment]] is key! Also see the [[Request for Proposal (RFP)]] page for resources on finding sample library building RFPs.

Latest revision as of 13:23, 15 June 2009

Q. Our library is bursting its walls, so we're starting to plan for a new one. Where do we start?

A. Most often it is the library administrator who, using statistics and a Sample benchmarking process, discussions of use patterns, and projections for the future, makes the case for expansion. But, as most librarians don't build a library more than once or twice in our careers, we turn to the experts and the published literature, some of which is listed on the Buildings page.